Virtual Learning Group Project

Online Learning Benefits and Pitfalls

As I think about the increases made in online learning in education, I believe that there are countless benefits but also pitfalls and problems that can occur if not implemented correctly. Some benefits our students have enjoyed are more control of their learning by being able to learn at their own pace, being about to work ahead and more availability/flexibility in courses. But online learning also dictates that student rely on an substantial amount of self-efficacy and that school districts make sure they have sufficient support available to help student succeed. In most cases at-risk students may require additional support and guidance. Lewis, Whiteside and Dikkers recommend implementing scaffolds and structures in order to further support online learning for at-risk populations. The scenarios presented also indicate that there are many challenges for all school districts to examine and  determine what works best for their students. As I do not feel my district has fully embraced online learning, most challenges are being faced on a individual level or case by case. Most of the curriculum changes have been made at individual school levels and not at the district level. I do believe that it should be an undertaking at the district level that includes input from all schools in the district but establishes an online learning policy using the state policies as a base, but also establishing a common pathway for the district's students to engage and be supported in online learning. Working in a large district, I see a lot of inconsistencies in how online learning is provided.

Of the scenarios listed, our district does see a number of students who transfer from cyber schools and  have struggled while at these schools with low test scores. So the big question is how do we address these students and is it feasible that their test scores be tied to performance evaluation under new teacher evaluation guidelines. Just as with students who transfer in from other districts, I feel their should be a way to fairly adjust these numbers during teacher performance evaluations.

Also, in the scenario with the overbearing parent who wants to to pull their child out of Mr. Siko's chemistry class, you can't prevent them from doing this as long as their students fulfills the state's guidelines for the online course. Also, I feel as long as it is in the best interest of the student you should not prevent it... but if you truly believe (based on passed performance) that this student will not benefit from an online environment you should try to come up with alternative solutions.

One myth which I have not heard and was new to me was that "online students are isolated and therefore will be socially disadvantaged." I find this untrue as most online programs force you to interact with others similar to the interactions in a regular classroom. Another point mentioned was that "online courses represent an 'add on' to already burdened school systems and teachers. This is untrue in our district as most of this programs are ran and taken over by teachers who take the lead in finding new and innovative approaches to instruction. Also, I do not feel any teachers believe that online classes are easier, instead I believe this is what many bosses believe. Just as the reading mentioned, I also believe students who have never taken an online class... also belief it will be easier.

In my earlier post, I believe got it right by demonstrating how customizable online programs are and how they can work for different students. Also, as my district has purchase prepackaged online construction, I knew this option was available. In reading the myths that were listed, there were not many surprises.